Who stands where? Major players in the debate

The Lowell Sun

Updated:
11/18/2012 06:41:51 AM EST

Town Manager

John Curran

As mayor of Woburn, Curran brought changes to that city's center. The traffic pattern stayed the same but more pedestrian-friendly features like a public courtyard and increased sidewalk space were introduced. Curran first unveiled the center redesign in February, and repeatedly promoted it since. Curran has organized more than 20 informational presentations for residents, business owners and town boards and committees. The project is also a part of Curran's overall plan for the town to jump-start improvements on its infrastructure through debt stabilization.

George Simolaris

Simolaris, a Town Meeting member who lives on Andover Road, cast one of the 59 votes against the project. He spearheaded the petition drive that forced Monday's referendum. A painter by trade, he crafted nearly 100 signs opposing the project. He's received broad support from scores of town center property owners and also members of the Republican Town Committee. His presence on the Common in November, waving his signs and chatting up motorists, has been ubiquitous. If the referendum fails, Simolaris has said he'll run for selectmen in the spring.

The Board

of Selectmen

Four members support the plan: Chairman Andrew Deslauriers, and members Robert Correnti, David Gagliardi and Robert Accomando. At Town Meeting, Gagliardi recalled how over the years selectmen have been accused of not having a vision for the town.

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"I can't think of a bigger vision then this," he said. Deslaurier said the project would move the town forward. "We've been on pause for 30 years in this town," he said in September. The sole dissenting voice has been Selectman Michael Rosa, who said the $14 million project is too costly.

Town Clerk

Shirley Schult

Schult, who is elected, has the job to ensure a fair and impartial election. The tight timeline of the referendum -- 14 to 21 days after signatures are certified -- meant Schult had to suggest a day for the vote. She has written several memos indicating her office's preference for a Monday vote over the traditional Saturday, yet Rosa managed to secure an internal email she sent to Curran that indicated either day would be possible. Opponents of the redesign said the Monday date will drive down turnout. Correnti responded that selectmen, who approve the referendum date, were following Schult's recommendation.

The Republican Town Committee

Chairman Tony Ventresca has said the committee has not collectively endorsed having the referendum. Any support for a vote against the project has been voiced by members acting as individuals and not as representatives of the committee. Ventresca paid for more than 200 professionally made signs asking for a "no vote" on the project. Simolaris has said he's made appearances at committee meetings and has also indicated he's disappointed that the committee has not thrown more support behind his effort.

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